Desserts

On today's episode of Desert Island, the hosts are discussing desserts. With nine different options presented, plus some add-ons from guests, this might be the toughest episode to decide on a favorite. Hopefully, you have a few snacks nearby while you listen to this one.

Alex's Dessert Picks

Affogato

This Italian dessert literally translates to "drowned in coffee." It's a scoop of ice cream or gelato with a shot of espresso poured over the top. Alex was first introduced in NYC when he thought his friend had ordered an "avocado" for dessert, but once he realized what was happening, he never turned back.

Dark Chocolate Bar

A simple dark chocolate bar made Alex's list. His preference is around 70% dark chocolate, and Theo makes his favorites. Other chocolatiers worth exploring include Jacques Torres (in NYC) and Maeve (in Seattle). There are some good options at Trader Joe's as well.

Grab a sampler pack from Theo for yourself.

Mango Sticky Rice

After trying this for the first time in Thailand, Alex seeks it out any time he's enjoying Thai food. In Seattle, he recommends ordering this dessert at Buddha Ruksa. He loves the fresh mango and the fact that it's both sweet and savory.

Justin's Dessert Picks

New York Cheesecake with Strawberries

Justin is very particular about including both a strawberry drizzle and sliced strawberries with his cheesecake. He's constantly looking for recommendations for good ones. Juniors is a consistent option and sells them in the freezer section at Costco.

A Chipwich

This is two desserts in one, so it's a perfect choice for the island. His preference is a soft chocolate chip cookie with vanilla ice cream sandwiched in between, coated in chocolate chips on the outside. The Trader Joe's version is a favorite of both Justin and Alex. If you're in Seattle, Molly Moons has a delicious one as well (available on the Pagliacci Delivery menu).

Homemade Brownie with Caramel Drizzle

Another combo of flavors that never disappoints for Justin is warm brownies with caramel on the top. It's not something he's ever been able to make on his own, but he has memories of friends' moms who could perfect these.

Need an internal oven thermometer for baking? Grab this one and see if you can make perfect brownies.

Mitch's Dessert Picks

Giant Snickerdoodle Cookies

Size matters for Mitch's cookie. He wants a Snickerdoodle the size of a small frying pan. When it's a bigger cookie, you get a gooey center but a structured outside. It's the perfect situation. Midnight Cookie Company is Mitch's favorite in Seattle.

Soft Serve Ice Cream

This summer staple can obviously be found at any Dairy Queen, but Mitch has fond memories of a little spot in Michigan. In Lake City, Michigan, you can visit Tasty Treat, home of the largest cones in North America. It's still around today and open seasonally. The guys also discussed the Mister Softee ice cream available at Mariners games and the perfection of ice cream at a baseball game in any city during the summer months. Another suggestion in Seattle is Matcha Man Ice Cream.

Key Lime Pie

Mitch's final pick was Key Lime Pie. It's refreshing, tart, and light. It would be perfect on a tropical island. Justin mentioned the famous Steve's Key Lime Pies in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Mitch suggested the Seattle spot, Deep Sea Sugar and Salt.

Final Thoughts on Desserts

Each guy received one vote from the others, so make sure to take the poll on Instagram this week to pick your winner. Thanks to the listeners, Jamie, Dan, Caroline, and Denise, for submitting a few more options for the island.